Inspect for proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis.

Loose propeller shaft mounting bolts

Tighten the bolts as required. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications in Propeller Shaft.

Worn propeller shaft constant velocity joint.

Replace the propeller shaft assembly. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.

A worn propeller shaft constant velocity joint may create a clicking, grinding, or snapping type of noise.

Worn or loose center bearing assembly

Replace the center bearing assembly as required.

A worn center bearing assembly may cause vehicle vibration or a grinding or squealing type of noise.

Worn universal joints

Replace the universal joints as required.

A worn universal joint may create a clicking or a snapping type of noise.

Refer to Universal Joint Replacement - External Snap Ring in Propeller Shaft.

Worn axle shaft constant velocity joints.

Replace or repair the constant velocity joints as required.

A worn axle shaft constant velocity joint may create a clicking, grinding, or snapping type of noise.

Refer to Symptoms - Rear Drive Axle .

Transfer case noise

Refer to Symptoms - Transfer Case .

Worn or damaged axle mounting bushings (Side)

Check the bushing position and replace the bushings as required. A worn bushing may create a clunk type of noise during acceleration or deceleration or wrong orientation.

Refer to Differential Housing Support Bushing Replacement .

Worn or damaged axle mounting bushings (Rear)

Replace the bushings as required.

A worn bushing may create a clunk type of noise during acceleration or deceleration.

Refer to Differential Housing Support Bushing Replacement .

Loose rear mounting bracket

Tighten the bracket bolts as required.

Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Loose or damaged prop guard

Repair or replace as required.

A loose dust shield may contact the propeller shaft assembly and create a scraping or grinding type of noise.

Bearing noise within axle assembly

A grinding or roar type of noise will increase or decrease relative to vehicle speed.

1. Check for the proper fluid level. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
2. If the noise continues, repair or replace the unit as required.

Gear set whine noise within axle assembly created by incorrect gear backlash

A whine type of noise will increase or decrease relative to vehicle speed.

1. Check for the proper fluid level. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
2. Repair or replace the unit as required.